Why Don't Children Sit Still?, Evelien Van Dort

Why is my son so clumsy? Why is my daughter’s handwriting so messy? My children want to play only video games. Will their lack of movement really hurt them?

Movement is essential in helping children develop not only motor skills but also intellectual, emotional, and social skills. Children learn through “doing” and playing. However, children’s journey to learn how to control their bodies can cause frustration for parents. How often do parents say, “Can’t you just sit still?” Or parents have to treat skinned knees when children trip over their own feet?

By understanding how children develop sensory motor skills—that is, get information through their senses and effectively respond physically—parents can begin to address and find reassurance about the issues that concern them.

Evelien van Dort draws on Rudolf Steiner’s theories of child development to outline ways that children build their movement skills.